A family fleeing from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine arrived in Mission last week – the city’s first.
Mission Community Service Society (MCSS) anticipates another family will arrive in mid-May.
“We will continue to do whatever we can to assist any refugee families who come to Mission,” said Michelle Puffer, MCSS’ executive director by email.
The families will receive assistance finding a place to live, getting language assessments and classes, finding a job, signing up kids for school, and connecting with various resources in the community, Puffer said.
While there is no cap on the number of families that Mission can welcome, Puffer does acknowledge finding housing is an issue. She added they’re hopeful that new developments coming online will be add to the rental stock.
“Obviously we are in a housing crisis for all people, not just refugees, so that makes it a more tenuous situation,” she said. “However, our staff have pulled out miracles for people before, and we will continue to do what we can to meet the need.”
MCSS is also in contact with neighbouring municipalities to work out capacity.
“I think you will see Mission open their hearts and homes to help those in need, just as they have done with other refugees before,” Puffer said.
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